"How did they come up with the name?” — MLB announcer John Kruk hilariously questions "cup" name for lower abdomen guard on air

John Kruk watched in disbelief as Garrett Stubbs, the Philadelphia Phillies catcher, got hit by a ball in the most sensitive area during their third game with the Oakland Athletics. While Stubbs was cringing in pain and attempting to get back to his feet, Kruk, being a profound analyst, shifted his focus to a more philosophical perspective: Why is an athletic cup called a "cup"?

Kruk, the former All-Star for the Phillies and current broadcaster for ESPN and MLB, is known for his sense of humor and for being expressive. He has never shied away from saying what he thinks on the field or in the booth.

" That was painful for everyone. We were discussing, how did they come up with the name cup?" said John Kruk.

The broadcast took an unexpected turn when Stubbs met a fastball during the Phillies' Sunday encounter against the Athletics. Even fellow commentator Tom Scully couldn't resist a playful remark, saying: "Well, you can drink out of it."

For many years, male athletes across various sports have referred to the protective equipment for the groin area as cups. Nobody is certain how the name came about, but these descriptions are believed to have originated in the early 20th century because of their shape. The less detailed and unofficial nature of the word has caused disagreements on its appropriateness.

Considering that sports commentary is often too academic or filled with cliches, Kruk’s spontaneous interventions are like a breath of fresh air. His ability to tickle people’s funny bones even in serious matters has made him popular among fans. Although we still do not know why it is called an athletic cup, he certainly added a new layer of appreciation for this often-unsung piece of protective gear.

A Look into John Kruk's Baseball and Broadcasting Career

John Kruk is synonymous with baseball as an ex-player and currently as a broadcaster. The three-time All-Star was a first baseman and outfielder for over 10 years. The versatile player was a fan favorite thanks to his hard-nosed playing style and timely hitting.

He effortlessly moved from playing baseball to broadcasting upon retiring. His perceptive insights and witty comments have made Kruk a top color commentator. He provides commentary for the Phillies, and his vast knowledge of the game and ability to connect with fans have made him a broadcasting icon.